Request Justification

General instructions: Requests should be reader friendly -- e.g. clear headings, concise prose, focused answers. The review team will be considering many requests and needs to be able to identify quickly what is being requested and why, as well as the projected cost of the request.

Summarize the request in one or two sentences, explaining the need the request would address.

For example: We are requesting an administrative assistant III to handle the increased budget management demands associated with three new grants the department has received.

Answer the following questions with reference primarily to the pertinent unit.

For example, if the request is for a lab technician, focus answers to the questions on the lab, not the department as a whole.

What is the current status (headcount, org chart, funding, etc.) of the unit making the request?

Requests for staff hires should:

Describe the work the proposed position will accomplish that is not getting done now.

Align with staffing standards for departments of similar size and productivity.

Describe how the additional staff position will help achieve the mission of this unit and supports the mission of the university and vision of 2012.

In the same terms as #1, what is the projected state of this unit in three to five years and what justifies that projection?

What resources (including this request) will be needed to reach that future state?

How can your unit assist the university in finding internal funds or outside funding to obtain the resources outlined in #3? Consider funds that may be reallocated and activities that may be discontinued to free up resources.

***NOTE*** Answer the following questions for personnel requests other than for new positions and for non-personnel requests.

What are the consequences to your department/Division if the request is not approved?

How can your unit assist the university in finding internal funds or outside funding to obtain the resources? Consider funds that may be reallocated and activities that may be discontinued to free up resources.